Blackie and the Rodeo Kings

Blackie and the Rodeo Kings is not a side project for
three outstanding musicians. Although it did start out
spontaneously, with the trio forming for what they
thought would be a one-off homage to Canadian folk
music hero (and still Blackie's guiding spirit),
Willie P. Bennett. Their musical chemistry and the
reaction to that tribute, BARK's 1996 debut, High Or
Hurtin', were so positive, they decided to run with
it. Now each member is completely committed to the
band, and the result is a band that is even greater
than the sum of its parts. Given that the individual
parts are pretty damned impressive, that's saying
something.

The sheer pleasure they derive from playing in Blackie
and the Rodeo Kings shines through onstage, and that's
another key to their success. They're simply one of
the very best Canadian live bands around, as anyone
who has seen them play will testify. Just ask country
great Merle Haggard, who invited them to open a
national tour in 2004.

The presence of three different lead vocalists allows
them to explore wide musical terrain, while they
harmonize together in original and thrilling fashion.
Factor in Tom's larger than life charisma and
wise-cracking asides, Colin's fluent yet fiery guitar
work, Stephen's spot-on vocal and guitar stylings, and
the vibrantly-hued stage costumes, and you have a
combination built to thrill.